Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 8 advertisement mocks Apple’s late entry into the foldable phone market by using an animated video to slice a piece of fruit before it rolls past the lineup of Samsung foldables dating from 2019 to 2026. The promotional video highlights the competition between the two tech giants as Apple introduces its first foldable device. CNET reported that the $1,899 Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 debuted in July with a shape similar to the $1,999 iPhone Duo.
European Sales Surge for Samsung Foldables
Consumer interest also spiked in digital search traffic. Major European markets experienced a 260% increase in Google searches for Samsung foldables during September 2026, peaking with a 460% increase between September 6 and September 12. Apple has faced a chaotic launch week for the iPhone Duo, dealing with thin inventory and shipping delays that made tracking down the device nearly impossible, though initial reception to the company’s first-ever foldable has remained strong.
Apple and Samsung, hardened rivals, both have passport-sized folding phones that are packed with features, come with compromises, and cost a lot. If you can't decide which option is better, we're here to help you choose. https://t.co/zRiWTGgPo8
Software Optimization and Hardware Comparison
While the iPhone Duo runs Apple’s iOS 27, reviews indicate that third-party apps and services still require optimization for different screen sizes. Meanwhile, Samsung has spent years refining its One UI 9.0 software overlay for dual screens. The Galaxy Z Fold 8 achieves a thinner and lighter build than Apple’s device by utilizing Flex Titanium display technology and higher-capacity silicon-carbon batteries. Engadget noted that the Z Fold 8 weighs 7.09 ounces compared to the iPhone Duo’s 9-ounce frame, while matching the 7.6-inch interior display size.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Foldable Lineup
How do the starting prices of the iPhone Duo and Galaxy Z Fold 8 compare?
The Apple iPhone Duo starts at $1,999, while the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 has a starting price of $1,899. Additional book-style foldables in the segment include the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra at $2,099, the Google Pixel 11 Pro Fold at $1,899, and the Motorola Razr Fold at $1,899. Expect to see discounts and sales soon on devices like the Z Fold 8, now that Apple has entered the fray and the market is on the cusp of Black Friday sales in the coming weeks.
What are the battery capacities of the competing foldable devices?
The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 features a 4,800mAh battery, and the Google Pixel 11 Pro Fold includes a 4,806mAh battery, whereas Apple does not disclose exact milliamp-hour capacities for the iPhone Duo.
Which devices match the IP68 dust and water resistance rating?
The Google Pixel 11 Pro Fold is the only major Android foldable in the comparison group to match Apple’s IP68 rating, while the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 holds an IP48 rating.
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